Honda Fit/Jazz

Since launch in 2002, over 134,399 units have been sold in the UK, enabling the Jazz to retain its top five sector position despite plenty of new product competition. In retail, Jazz has held the number one spot amongst its competitor set for the past four years, selling an average of 19,300 units each year. In fact, so well has the existing Jazz been selling, that Honda has decided to delay introducing the new model here until late in 2008.

Demand for new and used Jazz examples has meant that residual values are at levels normally expected from a newly introduced car - not one that’s five years into its lifecycle. After three years and an average 60,000 miles, the Jazz should retain 40 per cent of its value.

With regards to the all-new Jazz, the popular small car retains all its best features - class leading economy, cabin space to rival mid-sized saloons, and easy manoeuvrability - yet has been brought bang up-to-date with some subtle design changes, and clever interior space solutions.

Two engines will be available on the new car, a 1.5-litre i-VTEC and a frugal 1.3-litre i-VTEC which delivers maximum output of 100PS. CVT transmission is also available. In the chassis, a longer wheelbase and wider track offer even better stability, manoeuvrability and handling.

A rotating passenger seat is available on the Japanese car, which takes full advantage of the Jazz’s easy access. The seat has a higher position than previously, has additional foot space and features a specially contoured seat cushion. The seat enables easy loading and unloading of a wheelchair through the rear seats.

The Jazz has led the J.D. Power Survey supermini sector for four consecutive years, and continues to consistently win awards five years into its model life. It topped the Which? Reliability tables this year and has an unbeaten five top 5 category finishes in the Auto Express Driver Power Survey. In 2006 the Jazz was awarded Best Supermini at the Fleet News Awards, demonstrating its versatility across retail and corporate sectors.

Source: newcarnet